When Is It Worth It To Replace My Old Windows?

When looking to reduce your energy bill or when you start researching replacement windows, the biggest question we get is, "When is it worth the cost to replace windows in my home?" We understand that replacing windows in your home is an investment, so here are six reasons that we highly recommend investing in your replacement windows.

1) When your windows are broken or unsafe

Obviously, it's always important to replace broken windows for security and energy purposes. Not only do those broken windows allow for weather to enter your home, but they could also be a safety hazard for children or adults.

On many older wood and aluminum windows, the balance system that supports the weights of sashes no longer operates correctly, resulting in sashes that can fall shut very quickly when opened. This can lead to injury.

2) When you want to lower energy costs

Generally, the cost to replace windows won't be entirely offset by energy costs as only a portion of the heat gained or lost from your house is through your windows. The National Fenestration Rating Council, or NFRC, has reported that an estimated 40% of energy costs are affected by the performance of your doors and windows.

But, you'll still see a noticeable change in your monthly power bill—15% less at a minimum—as windows are the most significant source of heat gain. With a major upgrade and professional installation, that number could jump as high as 33%. You'll also notice more pleasant living conditions overall.

To find the most energy-saving benefits, install new windows that:

Are made of the highest-performing low e-glass, as not all low-E is the same

Use high-quality multi-chamber vinyl frames

Are double-paned with significant airspace (greater than 1/4”)

Use a foam-based glass spacer instead of metal

Are installed with top-of-the-line sealing materials

3) Low e-glass windows

For windows in New Orleans, this can be even more important. Low e-glass windows reflect 40-70% of the sun's energy, keeping your house cooler from the very beginning. E-glass, or solar control, windows are created to better block infrared light, as well as some UV rays. Infrared light is the main heating component of sunlight, while UV rays can fade furniture or other fabrics in your home.

When you're considering replacing windows in New Orleans for energy reasons, you can also take a look at a window's Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, or SHGC. This measures how effectively the window blocks heat coming in from the sun. The lower the rating, the better. Homeowners who install windows that have a SHGC rating of 0.3 or lower can even receive a federal tax credit.

A premium e-glass window with a low SHGC rating can be a worthwhile investment that helps you save money each month on your electric bill, and it can create a better living environment, especially in hot areas like New Orleans.

To learn more about how we create our specially-made windows for the hot and humid New Orleans climate, check out the video below.

4) When you want to improve resale value

When considering replacement windows cost, always consider the resale value it will add to your home. And, think about doing it sooner rather than later so you can enjoy the benefits of your new windows for longer!

If you want to replace your windows, however, always ensure that you buy windows that match the current look, feel, and quality of your home. Buying windows that clash with a home's style, or cheap windows added to an upscale home, can actually devalue your home come sale time.

But, high-quality, well-installed windows can create a great look for your home that instantly improves your overall curb appeal.

5) When you need better access and ease-of-use

Those with older homes understand the challenges of living with older windows—they're difficult to open and keep open, and they're even more difficult to clean. Some may even be painted shut. Newer double-hung windows provide greater ease-of-access to cleaning areas and can slide up or down to increase ventilation.

You should always consider the cost to replace windows, but don't forget the daily living benefits you'll receive from new windows throughout your home.

6) When repairs just won’t cut it

If the cost to replace windows is too high up-front, consider repairing those you can and replacing those that need it the most, especially those in the front of the home. Some issues can be solved with repairing the window and frame itself. Adding cheaper storm and screen windows can also provide some insulation benefits. An article from Consumer Reportsdiscusses ways to repair your windows without replacing them.

However, for some windows in New Orleans, the time and costs to repair them simply won't be worth it. This is especially true in humid environments where original wood frames have rotted or decayed.

Learn More

Choosing to replace windows in your home is a big investment, but it's often worthwhile for those with older homes in the New Orleans area. Call LAS today to learn more about how we create windows that are specially built for the Gulf Coast region. Our professionals will work closely with you to find windows perfectly matched for your home and needs.

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These shutters really enhance the beauty of our home and the guys from LAS that worked on our home are CHAMPS!

Karen & Coach Mainieri, LSU Tigers Baseball

Installers were professional, courteous, and very respectful of our property.

Patricia - Slidell, LA

Efficient, courteous, and all-around great staff!

Ken - Kenner, LA

Julia,
On behalf of Lighthouse Louisiana (formerly The Lighthouse for the Blind), please convey my thanks once again to your coworkers for supporting our summer camp for children who are blind. It is a rare thing to see a corporate family like yours, where people get together and give from their own hard-earned paychecks to local groups that are doing good work in the community. As donors, sometimes it’s hard to know what donations to organizations we care about are actually being used for. We consider LAS an important investor in our work, and we cannot thank you enough for helping us serve our clients.

Thank you,
Erin McQuade Wright
Director of Development

Erin McQuade Wright - Lighthouse Louisiana

Dear LAS Enterprises,
I am writing this note to let you know that the three gentlemen that came to our house were polite, neat, and clean. Especially Brad Batt, who worked both inside and outside and did a very good job. Thank you.

The Riches Family - Kenner, LA

We just finished getting new windows from LAS and I can’t be any happier. From start to finish, this job was done professionally. The salesman, Garrett, came to the house on time and explained the windows and the process and answered any questions that we had at the time. He indicated the person who would do the measurements would call and set up an appointment within two weeks and the the windows would be built and installed in about 5 weeks. Well, the job – from the initial estimate to complete install – was three weeks. The installed that completed the job did an excellent job of install, caulking and cleanup. We can’t give them a higher rating. The most amazing thing so far is the look and how much it has cut down on outside noise. I highly recommend LAS and since they are local, from repairs to employing people, we keep it right here at home. We are very satisfied customers.

Dusty & Leslie - Carriere, MS

I would like to thank you all for getting my job completed before I left on my vacation. Thanks also for sending Shane & Paul – they are two fine workmen. They work so neatly, they cleaned and detailed all the windows. I can truly say, the job is excellent and you have another satisfied customer

Robertine - Louisiana

LAS and its employees were great – the window I purchased looks great!

Wayne - New Orleans, LA

Great job! I will be recommending LAS to my friends and family

Sandra - Lafitte, LA

Great sales department and installation crew.

Mike - Jefferson, LA

I am VERY happy with my new windows and installation!

Torrie - St. Amant, LA

Workers and expeditors were very helpful and knowledgable.

Cindy - Paulina, LA

The crew did an amazing job installing my shutters.

Robert - Kenner, LA

The installers did a fantastic job. I would recommend LAS to anyone!

Gene - Gulfport, MS

Excellent service!

Danny - Meraux, LA

The installers did a fantastic job.

Gary - New Orleans, LA

(LAS) workers are excellent. They paid close attention to detail and were responsive to any questions asked. The sales department, office staff, and installers were great.

Anne - New Orleans, LA

A job well done. I am so pleased with my new windows – they look great!